Muse set for final Smithfield phase

Muse Developments is to begin restoration works on Mackie Mayor, a grade 2-listed building in the Northern Quarter, for potential retail, commercial or leisure uses.

The 12,700 sq ft property in Swan Street is the only remaining fully intact building from the former Smithfield market. Opened in 1858, it was originally used as a meat market, later diversifying to also sell fish and fresh produce.

In 1974 the markets were relocated to East Manchester and the Smithfield complex was closed. The building has been empty since the early 1990s.

Following the receipt of planning and listed building consent, Muse, in partnership with Manchester City Council, has appointed contractor Galliford Try to undertake a range of works aimed at making the structure of the building wind and watertight.

This includes installing a new section of roof, replacement slates and new windows, as well as internal refurbishment and decoration.

The works will restore and improve the architecturally significant features of the building such as the ornate cast iron columns and beams that form the structure of the building internally.

The first stage works are due to start at the end of March with a view to completing in September. Once the first stage is complete, Muse will be able to market the building to a range of potential occupiers.

Subject to planning permission the building could accommodate a range of uses such as leisure, retail or commercial.

Wes Erlam, development director at Muse, said: "Having concluded the development of phase six of the Smithfield project, One Smithfield Square, it was always our intention to continue on to the Mackie Mayor. We have now reached that stage and look forward to the first step in bringing the building back to its former glory. It is an integral part of our Smithfield regeneration project, and its restoration will represent the final piece of the jigsaw."

Muse's Smithfield regeneration scheme has delivered more than 350 apartments, two hotels and more than 30,000 sq ft of ground floor space across the Northern Quarter. Its sixth phase, a ten-storey residential building comprising 77 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, has recently completed.